MAC praises CP agreement following rail strike

The Mining Association of Canada (MAC) expressed relief at the news that Canadian Pacific Railway Limited and TCRC-T&E have reached a tentative four year agreement and commends the work of federal negotiators and, in particular, the leadership of the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, the Honourable Patricia Hajdu.

“The impacts of a one day strike will be manageable for Canada’s mining sector and intervention by the federal government in support of quick resolution avoids harm to Canada’s reputation as a reliable exporter,” said Pierre Gratton, MAC's President and CEO.

A protracted labour dispute would have led to painful rail service disruptions for Canadian mining companies and damaged Canada’s reputation as a reliable trading partner, and the national economy.

According to MAC’s latest Facts & Figures report, the Canadian mining industry accounts for over 50% of the freight revenues of Canada’s rail system yearly. The industry is also a key economic driver for the country having contributed CAN$58 billion to Canada’s GDP, employed directly and indirectly 596 000 workers, and accounted for 19% (>$88 billion) of the total overall value of Canada’s exports.